Reconciling Efficiency and Flexibility: Case study of an Industrial Automation Company and a Computer Company
Date Issued
2011
Date
2011
Author(s)
Chiang, Jessica
Abstract
Abstract
This thesis investigates the practice of reconciling flexibility and efficiency, with two companies in two distinct industries serving as the objects of enquiry. From this research, I also hope to understand if a company can build an infrastructure which will sustain superior product/service quality and effective response to market demand, and do so without additional costs. In addition, I will examine if there are any similarities between the two companies in regard to the way they achieved global leadership by applying the abovementioned principles and replicating a successful model.
All complex products and organization structure can be decomposed into modular designs by applying the concept of core-peripheral components; these are defined as comprising a loosely coupled modular design. A model was adopted to illustrate the factors that influence modular systems, with the heterogeneity of both inputs and demands analyzed increases pressure for the system to become more modular; each reinforces the effects of the other. The modes of learning are also referenced to show the evolution of the interrelationships of product and organization design, processes for learning and managing knowledge, and competitive strategy. The process leading to modularity design involves creating a complete information structure to demonstrate the fully specified component interfaces of a modular product architecture used to manage and resolve sequential and overlapping problems.
By facilitating the principles of reconciling flexibility and efficiency derived from these two case studies, the firms can thereby increase their strategic flexibility to respond to environmental changes.
Keywords: Modularity, Flexibility, Efficiency, Dominant design and Organization structure.
Subjects
Modularity
Flexibility
Efficiency
Dominant design
organization structure.
Type
thesis
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